Page 21 - International SOS PR Report August 2024

According to reports, climate change is causing extreme weather around the
world, generating record-breaking heat waves on land and at sea. This
increased frequency of heatwaves globally poses significant health threats,
including heat stress, which is the leading cause of weather-related fatalities
and can exacerbate underlying medical conditions.1 To ensure employee health
and wellbeing, organisations should provide clear guidance on heatwave
preparedness, such as staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak
heat hours and recognising the signs of heat-related illness.
Dr Ehab Chalabie, Medical Director, Middle East, International SOS said: “The
excitement of summer travel can sometimes overshadow potential health risks.
It is important to understand that conditions such as heart disease, asthma and
diabetes can be worsened by warmer weather, leading to more severe
symptoms and sometimes complications. To mitigate these risks, organisations
should encourage their workforce to consult with healthcare professionals before
travelling. These consultations help travellers identify destination-specific health
threats during summer and take essential preventive measures, including
vaccinations, hygiene practices and sun safety protocols.”
Gulnaz UKASSOVA, Security Director, Information & Analysis Mashreq & Iran,
East & Southern Africa, International SOS, said: “The surge in summer travel
underscores the importance of prioritising employee safety and fostering a
strong security awareness culture within organisations. By conducting
comprehensive destination research, travellers can equip themselves with
knowledge of local security risks. This knowledge empowers travellers to make
informed decisions and minimise their vulnerability to threats. Unfamiliar
environments can heighten the risk of security threats, emphasising the need
for robust personal security measures.”
International SOS offers guidelines for organisations and their workforce to stay
healthy and safe whilst travelling from the Middle East region this summer:

1. Pre-Travel Health Check-Up: Encourage employees to schedule a pre-
travel consultation with a healthcare professional. This allows for
necessary vaccinations, review of existing health conditions, and
guidance on travel-specific health risks.
2. Destination Research: Advise employees to research their destination
thoroughly. This includes understanding local weather patterns,
potential health risks, cultural norms, and security concerns.
International SOS offers a suite of travel advisory resources for various
destinations worldwide.
3. Plan ahead and choose safe accommodation: When selecting a place to
stay, use credible booking sites, pick the location carefully and consider
checking reviews from other travellers.
4. Highlight the importance of understanding traveller targeted
risks: International visitors can be common targets for pickpocketing
and scams. Provide basic travel safety training to travelling employees.

https://mid-east.info/essential-pre-travel-planning-for-a-safe-and-healthy-summer/